New Driver & Coach

Practice Guide

Welcome to Driving in Maryland

Dear Coach and Rookie Driver:

For the Rookie Driver: Congratulations. In getting your Learners Instructional Permit,
you have just completed the first step to get your Maryland Drivers License. To ensure
that you are fully prepared to take on the responsibility of driving, Maryland has a three
step graduated licensing system that includes a learners instructional permit, a provisional
license, and a drivers license.
This manual is designed to help you move from your learners instructional permit to your
provisional license. To help you and your driving coach move forward safely, there are
several sections included in this manual:
Tips on how to be an effective driving coach.
A series of suggested routes and skills you and your coach need to master before you
plan to take the skills test at the MVA.
A coach-new driver agreement that you and your coach should complete before
starting to drive.
A log to track your hours of practice to make sure you reach the minimum of 60 hours
required by law. If you are 25 years or older, you must practice a minimum of 14 hours.
A certification page that you must bring to the MVA when you come to take your skills
test. This page certifies that you have completed the required practice time.
A chart with laws and regulations you must follow and your coach must enforce.
A key part of the Maryland Graduated Licensing System and becoming a safe driver
is practice driving. You must practice with an experienced, licensed driver over the age
of 21 who has held a license for at least three years. To complete the required practice
hours, you and your coach should start right away. Plan to practice on a wide variety of
roads in a wide variety of conditions. When it comes to driving and new drivers, practice
does make safer, if not perfect.
For the coach: Even after your new driver obtains his/her provisional license, please
remember that the decision to drive safely is one that all drivers in Maryland face daily. Do
not forget to complete the Rookie Driver - Coach Driving Agreement. This agreement
will help you and your new driver develop a contract to encourage safe driving
throughout the dangerous first years of driving.
The best coach is a good role model. Responsible driving is one of the best things you
can do to keep your new driver safe. We hope you will find this guide valuable.

A log to record
your practice
driving under
the required
supervision of an
experienced driver.
1

Are you helping a Rookie Driver complete their required practice

time? Then you are a coach, helping to guide and mentor a new
driver through this experience. Here are some simple tips for you
to make learning to drive a better experience for both you and
your Rookie Driver.
Take learning to drive seriously but try to have fun.
Do research and get information to locate the best driving school for you and
your new driver.
Attend the Orientation session for Driver Education (Unit One) to show your
new driver how important driver education is.
Review and discuss what your new driver is learning in each class as they
progress through the course.
Schedule times and prepare routes before beginning to practice with your new
driver.

For The Driving Coach

Know updated laws and processes.

Review the Maryland Drivers Manual for more information about:
The latest laws regarding texting and cell phone use for both you and your new
driver. (Section VI of the Maryland Driver Manual)
The latest laws about seatbelts. (Section X of the Maryland Driver Manual)
The latest laws about moving over for emergency vehicles
The latest laws about sharing the road.
For more information and to obtain a copy of the Maryland Drivers Manual, visit
www.mva.maryland.gov

Talk with your Rookie Driver.

Define what safe driving is for you and your new driver.
Discuss what skills you and your new driver will be
working on before you and your new driver start to
drive.
Make sure your instructions are simple and direct.
Give feedback that focuses on improvement and how
to learn from mistakes.
Remain calm with your new driver at all times. Yelling
doesnt help.

Set a good example with your safe driving.

Follow all traffic laws.
Avoid distractions.
Always wear your seat belt.
2

What can I do if my
Rookie Driver does
not obey my rules or
Maryland law?
When your new driver
received a learners
permit or a provisional
license, you were required
to co-sign. This means
you can withdraw consent
and cancel the license.
The new driver may not
be able to obtain a new
license until turning 18.

How do I choose a driving school for my Rookie Driver?

Make sure that the school is licensed by the Maryland Motor Vehicle
Administration. Only licensed schools are able to certify the completion of the
driver education program.
A complete listing of driving schools in your area can be found at
www.mva.maryland.gov
Ask other parents about their experiences with driving schools.
Check with several schools to see which ones have a convenient location and
schedule for you and your new driver.
Remember your new driver must attend 30 hours of classroom and 6 hours of
behind-the-wheel training.
Check with the driving school about their policies:
Ask about the Unit One: Orientation schedule for coaches and new drivers.
How much does driver education cost?
Is a payment plan available?
What is the refund policy if your new driver is unable to finish?

For The Driving Coach

Y
The Graduated Licensing System

You have just obtained your Learners Instructional Permit, the

first step to becoming a fully licensed driver. There are several
steps you must complete before moving to the next step.
You must have a learners permit for at least nine (9) months before becoming
eligible for a provisional license. If you are convicted or granted probation
before judgment for any moving violation, you will need to restart the nine month
probation period.
Before going to take the skills test at the MVA, you must complete:
At least sixty (60) hours of driving practice with someone at least age twentyone (21) who has held a drivers license for at least three (3) years to be eligible
for a provisional license.
At least ten (10) of the practice hours must occur at night.
A practice driving skills log must be signed by an individual certifying the
practice driving requirements were fulfilled. New drivers must also present the
completed skills practice log and completed certification page along with their
valid Maryland learners instructional permit.
You must complete a Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) approved
Driver Education Course consisting of a minimum of thirty (30) hours classroom
instruction and six (6) hours behind the wheel training.
Your Maryland learners instructional permit is good for 2 years (24 months)
from the date it is issued.

What if I am 25 years of age or older ?

You still need to complete a Maryland MVA approved driver education course.
You still need a supervising driver or coach to help you practice.
BUT you only need 14 hours of supervised practice with a minimum of three
practice hours at night.
And you only need to wait 45 days before being allowed to take the skills test
and receive a drivers license, if you do not receive any moving violation citations
or PBJ (probation before judgment).
If you do receive a moving violation citation or a PBJ, you will be required to
hold the learners instructional permit for 9 months before being allowed
to take the tests to become a fully licensed driver.
If you are over 25 and have additional questions, please go to
www.mva.maryland.gov

Do I need a learners permit to start practicing?

My family is going on vacation. What if I want to drive in another state?

You should check with the Motor Vehicle Administration in those states before
driving there. A state may not accept a Maryland learners permit, and you would
not be able to drive there even if you are with a supervising driver over 21 with
three years of driving experience.

I just got my receipt from the MVA for my learners permit.

What if I want to start driving?
You can drive but you must keep your receipt with you when you drive.

What if my learners permit expires before I get my provisional license?

You will need to RETAKE the law test and get a new learners permit before you
will be allowed to take the driving skills test.

Can I use parking assist, back up cameras and other technologies when
I take my skills test?
You may use your backup camera and the vehicles onboard radar system, but you
may not use the parking assist feature.

The Graduated Licensing System

Before you start driving, you must have a learners instructional permit. You must
also have your learners permit with you every time you drive, even in an empty
parking lot.

As a coach, make sure the Rookie Driver is comfortable before going

on to the next set of skills in more challenging environments. More
important than being able to complete a specific driving task, the Rookie
Driver needs to be aware of his/her surroundings and drive safely. At
the end of each lesson is a checklist to make sure the Rookie Driver is
able to complete all the skills before progressing to the next lesson.
This lesson should be completed in a driveway, parking lot, or a lightly
traveled residential road. It would be best to complete this lesson with
minimal distraction and few vehicles around.

Practice Lessons: Beginning to Drive

Pre-entry Check
Have the driver check all around the vehicle for hazards
such as:
Broken glass on or around the vehicle
Body damage to the vehicle
Condition of tires and lights
Fluid leaks under the vehicle
People or objects
DO - click it every time
you drive or ride, even on
short trips.
DO - move closer to the
buckle of your seat belt
for a better fit and better
angle across the shoulder.
DO - wear your lap belt
low on your hips, under
your stomach.
DO - click it right to
prevent serious injury and
to avoid a ticket.

Getting Ready to Drive

Be sure to help your new driver adjust seat, safety belts
and mirrors appropriately.
Be sure the new driver knows where all the controls are:
Headlights
Turn signal
Hazard lights
Horn
Heater, defroster and A/C
Parking brake
Windshield wipers
Door locks
Who has to wear a safety belt
Gear shift
in Maryland?
Gas pedal/accelerator
Everybody, no matter where they are
Brake pedal
seated in the vehicle and no matter what
Fasten seat belts securely.
their age. Seatbelts are your best protection
Turn off all electronic devices.
in a crash. You can be ticketed if everyone
in the vehicle is not buckled up.

Steering

Have the new driver turn the wheel slightly to the right and to the left to develop a
feel for how the vehicle will move when the wheel turns.
Make sure the new driver is comfortable with the steering wheel before
attempting the next two steps.
6

Moving the vehicle

Make sure the new driver knows where the brake and gas pedals are.
Have the new driver start the vehicle, making sure the new drivers foot is on the brake.
Have the new driver shift the vehicle into Drive and slowly release the brake.
You may want to have the new driver engage the brake and the gas alternately
several times to get the feel of accelerating and stopping the vehicle before
moving onto actual driving.

Turns
Help your new driver practice each of the following
steps:
Practice turning to both the right and the left before
leaving the parking lot.
Check for approaching traffic in all directions.
Remind the new driver to use the mirrors.
Signal intention to turn.
Turn the steering wheel smoothly.
Enter nearest lane for desired direction.
Accelerate smoothly.
Help your new driver practice each of the following
steps:
Press on the brake, shift in to reverse.
Grasp the wheel at 12 oclock.
Do a visual search around the vehicle to make sure
the way is clear.
Do not start to back up until you are sure the space
around your vehicle is clear of pedestrians, bicyclists,
and vehicles.
Turn your body to the right, with your arm over the
back of the seat.
Release the brake.
Do not accelerate using the gas pedal. Allow the vehicle
to move at a slow walking pace, continuing to watch for
pedestrians, bicyclists, other vehicles or animals.

The best hand position

on the steering wheel
is to have your hands
on the wheel in a
balanced position so
that you are in full
control of the vehicle at
all times. One of the
preferred positions is
left hand at 9:00 and
the right hand at 3:00.
Keeping your hands
in this position allows
you to maintain good
steering control
and minimize the risk
of injury from the
airbag in a crash.
STEERING POSITIONS
11

12

1
2

10

3
4

8
7

Coachs Tip
While you and your new driver are driving, it is helpful to have the
new driver describe what they are seeing, doing, and even thinking.
This will help you, as a coach, correct mistakes before they happen.
It is also helpful as an experienced driver to explain to your new
driver what you are doing and why you are doing it when you drive.

Practice Lessons: Beginning to Drive

Backing

What is the correct

hand position?

Common errors with backing up in a straight line

Improper body position
Moving too fast
Failing to check to see what is behind you
Failing to look behind you during the whole maneuver
Using only (or mostly) the mirrors during the back up
Not steering in the direction you are wanting to go

Practice Lessons: Beginning to Drive

Position within the lane

Have your new driver practice driving in each lane position.
(See illustration to right).
Center position (1) Most commonly used. Have the new
driver maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane.
Left position (2) Vehicle is positioned to the left side of
the lane but is still entirely within the lines. Best used when
approaching a hill, curve, or driving next to parked cars.
Right position (3) Vehicle is positioned to the right, but still
entirely with the lines. Used to prepare to make a right turn.

Coachs Checklist

Before going on to the next set of skills:

Does your new driver know where all the controls for the vehicle
are? Yes No
Does your new driver know how to complete a check around the
vehicle before moving? Yes No
Does your new driver know how to brake smoothly and come to a
complete stop? Yes No
Can your new driver back up using the correct procedure?
Yes No
If you dont answer yes to all of the questions,
STOP and practice more.

Before starting, the coach should review where all the control
devices are. The coach should also review backing, turning, and
accelerating. The coach should also make sure the Rookie Driver
completes a full pre-entry check before getting started. This lesson
should be completed on a lightly traveled residential road to make
sure the Rookie Driver is comfortable before going to busier roads.
Entering traffic from the side of the road

Intersections

Help your new driver practice each of the following

B
steps:
As you and your new driver approach an
intersection, check for vehicles, pedestrians,
signs, and traffic control devices.
Adjust speed to prepare to stop if necessary.
A
Tap the brake before coming to a complete stop
to alert drivers behind the vehicle.
Bring the vehicle to a full and complete stop at all
stop signs and red traffic lights.
If stopped at an intersection and the signal turns green, make sure that the
intersection is clear before proceeding.

What do you do when

you see a school bus?
If there is no roadway
divider between your
vehicle and a school bus
AND a school bus has its
flashing red lights on and
the stop sign up, you must
STOP AND WAIT until the
lights are turned off and
the stop sign is down.
9

Practice Lessons: Driving In Neighborhoods

Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:

Check to the rear, sides, and front of the vehicle.
Use your turn signal to indicate your intended direction.
Select a safe gap in traffic.
When clear, drive into the appropriate lane.
Turn your signal off.
Accelerate to appropriate speed.

Turning at an Intersection

Practice Lessons: Driving In Neighborhoods

Check for vehicles, pedestrians,

signs, and traffic control devices.
Before turning the vehicle, turn
your head to check your blind
spots.
Use turn signal at least 34
seconds in advance to indicate
that you will be turning.
Position your vehicle in the lane correctly.
Adjust your speed as necessary and stop if required. (Remember you must stop
completely before making a right turn on red.)
Identify a safe gap.
Check mirrors and look for any hazards.
Steer into the proper lane.
Adjust speed as necessary,

Leaving Traffic
Search ahead for a safe and legal place to park.
Check mirrors.
Turn your turn signal on.
Slow the vehicle.
The center cars driver sees the car to
Steer within 12 inches of the curb.

the left through his mirrors but cannot

see the car to the right without turning
to check his blind spot.
A driver should turn his/her head to
the right and to the left to see blind
spots before changing lanes.

Coachs Checklist

Before going on to the next set of skills:

Does your new driver stop completely at red lights and stop signs
and understand giving right of way? Yes No
Does your new driver consistently signal before turning?
Yes No
Does your new driver complete a careful visual search before
moving onto the road or through an intersection? Yes No
Does your new driver enter and exit intersections safely and
confidently? Yes No
Does your new driver understand lane position and place the
vehicle correctly in lane at all times? Yes No
If you dont answer yes to all of the questions,
STOP and practice more.
10

After your Rookie Driver has practiced entering traffic and

driving around the neighborhood several times to get the feel of
accelerating, braking, using turn signals, and watching for all of
the risks that are present in a neighborhood, you should plan to
go out onto a larger road. The average speed on the road should
be between 35-50 mph. You and your Rookie Driver should focus
not only on practicing driving skills but also on looking ahead and
watching for hazards on the road.
Changing Lanes

Risk Is Everywhere!
Risk is the constant danger that something unexpected
will happen on the road. A child may run after a ball
and into traffic. A driver in front of you may stop suddenly.
Someone next to you may look down at a cellphone and
swerve into your lane. Experienced drivers anticipate what
can happen on the road and change their driving when they
see dangerous situations developing. Because novice drivers
frequently do not recognize risky situations, they are more
likely to not react and get into crashes.

Learning to recognize and manage risk

is critical to safe driving.

11

Practice Lessons: Driving On Busy Roads

Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:

Maintain proper space
cushion.
Check traffic in all
directions.
Select a safe gap.
Use turn signal to signal
intentions.
Recheck in the direction
of the lane change.
Adjust speed, and steer
smoothly into lane.
Cancel turn signal once established in the lane.

Using Shared Left Turn Lane to Enter a Driveway or Parking Lot.

Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:
Check traffic, signaling left turn.
Check for drivers entering from left and right sides of the road.
Signal for 34 seconds in advance of the move.
Adjust speed and move into shared turn lane no more than 23 seconds in
advance of the turn.
Wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic and complete turn.

Practice Lessons: Driving On Busy Roads

Using Shared Left Turn Lane to Enter Traffic

Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:
Signal left turn, stop at edge of roadway.
Check for drivers on the opposite side of the roadway who are signaling left turn.
Check for safe gap to the left.
If traffic is clear in both directions, enter first through lane to left.
If gap is to the left but not to the right, move into shared turn lane.
Stop and turn on right signal.
Recheck oncoming traffic.
When traffic clears, accelerate and steer into nearest lane.

Using Multiple Turn Lanes

Help your new driver practice each of
the following steps:
Adjust speed and position to minimize
conflicts.
Identify the turn lane one or two
blocks in advance.
Signal your intentions.
When safe, enter the appropriate lane.
Check the traffic control devices, the oncoming traffic, and the cross traffic.
When legal and safe, steer into the corresponding lane.
Stay alert for pedestrians crossing the street and for oncoming vehicles.
Remember, trucks and buses needed more room to turn.

Move Over, Stop, or Slow Down?

STOP! For any school buses with their lights and signals on, if there is no divider
between you and the school bus.
MOVE OVER! Move over into the next lane, if possible, for any emergency
vehicle (police, fire, or ambulance) or tow truck who is stopped at the edge of
the roadway or shoulder and whose flashing lights are on.
SLOW DOWN! If you cannot move over for an emergency vehicle who is stopped
at the edge of the roadway or shoulder and whose flashing lights are on, then
you must slow down.
12

What is a Roundabout?

A roundabout, which is sometimes called a traffic

circle, allows vehicles to move more efficiently
than a traffic light would.
What am I supposed to do when I get to one?
Slow down.
Obey all traffic signs and pavement markings.
Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists when
entering and exiting the roundabout.
Yield to traffic on your left already in the
round-about.
Keep your speed low.
As you approach your exit, turn your right turn
signal on.

Straight Ahead
2nd exit

1st exit

2nd exit

3rd exit

Driving with Bicycles

3 Ft.

Coachs Checklist

Before going on to the next set of skills:

Does your new driver safely go through a complex intersection?
Yes No
Does your new driver properly use a shared left turn lane to both
enter and exit traffic? Yes No
Does your new driver change lanes safely? Yes No
Does your new driver obey ALL traffic signs and signals?
Yes No
Does your new driver observe all posted speed limits when driving?
Yes No
Does your new driver feel comfortable driving on a large, busy
road? Yes No
If you dont answer yes to all of the questions,
STOP and practice more.
13

Practice Lessons: Driving On Busy Roads

You are required to maintain a three foot

space cushion between you and a bicyclist
traveling on a Maryland road. While some
Maryland roads do have special bicycle
lanes, many do not. Help keep Maryland
roads safe for everyone who uses them.

Start practicing with your Rookie Driver on highways when the

traffic is light and the weather conditions are good. A good time to
practice is a weekend morning. Practice for several hours before
trying to drive in heavy traffic or in bad weather. Be sure to discuss
previous skills that you and your Rookie Driver have mastered
before beginning expressway driving.

Practice Lessons: Expressway Driving

Expressway Driving
Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:
Identify the expressway entrance ramp.
Accelerate to highway speed and signal to indicate you are merging into traffic.
Select a safe gap and merge into the closest lane.
Select the proper driving lane.
Maintain a minimum of 34 seconds of following space.
Change lanes after signaling and checking the area around you using mirrors
and performing head checks.
Identify exit in adequate time to change lanes safely.
Exit from expressway using turn signals head and mirror checks and the
deceleration lane, if available.
Adjust speed after exiting expressway.

High Speed, Multiple Lane Divided Highway with Cross Streets

Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:
Before entering the highway from the cross street, stop completely unless
entering on a green signal.
Use your turn signal to indicate in what direction you will be turning.
Carefully select a large gap in traffic. (Careful gap selection is critical.)
Accelerate into proper lane.
Maintain an adequate space cushion. (3-4 second minimum)
Change lanes only after completing head checks, mirror checks.
To exit highway, using appropriate turn signal and decelerate safely.

Looking Ahead or I.P.D.E.

Identify potential risks like oncoming vehicles,
pedestrians obstacles, and/or intersections.
Predict when or where there may be a problem.
Decide on the best course of action.
Execute that action.
14

Passing Another Vehicle

Help your new driver practice each of the following
steps:
Maintain a proper interval between you and the
vehicle to be passed.
Select an adequate gap in oncoming traffic.
Signal your intentions.
Check mirrors and complete head check before
changing lanes.
Steer smoothly into the passing lane and
accelerate.
Even when passing, you are not allowed to exceed the posted speed limit.
When the entire front of the vehicle can be seen in your rear view mirror, signal
and steer smoothly into the original lane.

Being Passed
Help your new driver practice each of the following steps:
Maintain speed and lane position.
Check for oncoming traffic that may present a hazard to the passing vehicle.
Slow if necessary to allow the passing vehicle to reenter the lane.

Coachs Checklist
Before going on to the next set of skills:
Does your new driver enter and exit the highway safely using
turn signals and checking the road for potential hazards?

Yes No

Does your new driver yield safely when entering the highway?

Yes No

Does your new driver maintain a safe distance from other

drivers on the highway? Yes No
Does your new driver maintain the appropriate speed on the
highway? Yes No
Does your new driver maintain focus while driving on the
highway? Yes No

If you dont answer yes to all of the questions,

STOP and practice more.
15

Practice Lessons: Expressway Driving

What is the proper following distance and how do I measure it?

The proper distance under ideal conditions is 34 seconds. To measure, start
counting when the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object such as a
lamp post or a road marker. Stop
MILE
9
counting when you reach the
same marker. You should increase
the distance in bad weather or at
night.

After practicing with your Rookie Driver on a variety of roads, you

should take him/her driving at night. It is a requirement of the
Graduated Licensing System that you practice with your Rookie Driver
for at least 10 hours at night. You may want to practice on a familiar
neighborhood road and work up to busier and more challenging driving
environments. Make sure your Rookie Driver follows these rules:
Before you drive, check that all exterior lights work properly (front and rear lights,
brake lights, turn signals, low and high beams).
Make sure your windows and headlights are clean (inside and outside). Dirty
windows can add to glare and impair vision, making it more difficult to see; dirty
headlights can greatly reduce efficiency.
Avoid using high beams when it is foggy, they will reduce your own ability to see
and may temporarily blind other drivers.
Avoid using high beams when you see the headlights of an oncoming vehicle.

Practice Lessons: Night Time Driving

The Importance of Using Low Beam Headlights in Foggy Driving Conditions

Low Beam Headlights

High Beam Headlights

Beam stays lower and more faint,

minimizing the amount of light reected
off of the fog

Beam angled higher and brighter,

increasing the amount of light reected
off of the fog and impairing visibility

Adjust your rear-view mirror to avoid the reflection of other vehicles headlights, most
cars have day/night rear-view mirrors that can be tilted easily to reduce the glare.
Avoid using your vehicles interior light while driving. If you need to check for
something, safely pull over to the side of the road first.
Keep your eyes moving. Watch for flashes of light - at the top of hills, at road
bends and intersections - that may indicate the headlights of other cars.
Increase your following distance to make sure you have time to adjust your speed
or brake as needed.
Night time driving requires lots of concentration, which can be tiring. To prevent
fatigue, take frequent breaks to give your eyes and mind a rest.

Coachs Checklist
Please remember that you are required to practice at least 10 hours
after dark with your new driver. Many teen crashes occur at night
because new drivers fail to make necessary adjustments to their
driving like slowing down or allowing for greater following distance.
Does your new driver use high beams and low beams correctly
when driving at night? Yes No
Does your new driver adjust following distance and speed when
driving at night? Yes No

16

You may not get to practice all of these skills before your new
driver obtains a provisional license. But Maryland weather can
change frequently, and we experience a wide variety of weather
conditions across the state. When these conditions occur, you should
try and practice with your new driver and remind them of some
fundamental rules.

Wet roads

Hydroplaning
Usually occurs as a result of water on the road that is deeper than the tire tread
and excessive speed.
Reduces friction between the tire and the road. It can result in a loss of control.
To avoid hydroplaning, avoid deep puddles in the road.
If you cant avoid the puddle, then slow down to minimize risk if you do lose control.

Fog
Slow down. You cant know where you are going if you cant see.
Turn on low beams. High beams will reflect back and make it more difficult to see.
If your vehicle has fog lights, you should use them.

Snow
Make sure your entire vehicle
is free of snow and ice before
driving.
Steer smoothly, travel slowly, and
brake gently.
Stay alert. Stopping distances are
10 times greater on snow.
Watch for icy conditions
especially in shaded areas and on
bridges and overpasses.

Make sure your entire vehicle is free of

snow and ice before driving.
17

Practice Lessons: Adverse Weather Conditions

Turn on your headlights, even in light rain, to help you see, and be seen.
Turn on your front and rear defoggers to keep your windows clear.
It takes longer to stop on wet roadways, so increase your following distance and
drive at a slower pace than you normally would.
Brake earlier and less forcefully than you normally would. This increases the
stopping distance between you and the car in front of you, and signals to the
driver behind you that youre slowing down.
Watch for pedestrians. People get distracted opening an umbrella or rushing to
get out of the rain.
If you cant see the road or the car in front of you, or you are feeling anxious, pull
over to a safe spot.

Parking is a challenging skill for any Rookie Driver. Make sure your
Rookie Driver practices each of these steps carefully. Parallel Parking
is a required part of the driving test, so please be sure to practice.
Entering a Parallel Parking Space

Practice Lessons: Parking

Signal your intentions.

Stop your vehicle parallel to the vehicle you are parking
B
C
A
behind.
Make sure your front seat is in line with the vehicle you
B
C
A
are parking behind and that there is 2-3 feet between
vehicles.
With your foot on the brake, shift to R or reverse.
B
C
A
Check traffic in all directions and yield to any pedestrians,
bicyclists, or other vehicles.
Back slowly and turn wheel sharply in appropriate direction.
Continue backing until the driver is in line with the rear bumper of the vehicle you
are parking behind.
Look to the rear while backing slowly. Turn the steering wheel in the opposite
direction and stop before touching the bumper of the vehicle to the rear.
Shift to drive and adjust vehicle in parking space.
Make sure your vehicle is no more than 12 inches from the curb.

Exiting a Parallel Parking Space

Check for traffic and signal your intentions.
Press on the brake, shift to reverse, and back close to the vehicle behind your car
without hitting its bumper.
Shift to drive, and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to travel and
move forward carefully.
Continue to check your front bumper so you do not hit the car parked in front of you.
Steer into a safe gap in traffic.

Entering an Angle Parking Space

Exiting an Angle Parking Space

Identify space in which to park and

signal intentions.
Move slowly, turning into the space.
Center the vehicle in the space.
Move forward to the front of the
parking space and secure the vehicle.

Check for traffic in all directions

Carefully back up.
Turn the steering wheel in direction
you want to travel.
When car clears parking area, stop
and shift to drive.

Coachs Checklist
Can your new driver enter and exit an angled parking space? Yes No
Does your new driver check mirrors and perform head checks before
exiting a parking space? Yes No
Can your new driver enter and exit a parallel parking space without
hitting the curbs or any vehicle? Yes No
If your new driver cannot parallel park successfully, continue to practice
with them. Parallel parking is a skill that is tested on the MVA Skills test.

18

Bumps In The Road For The Rookie Driver

What happens if you are pulled over by a police officer?
Pull off to the side of the roadway as far away from traffic as possible.
Turn off the engine, radio, and any other device.
Stay in your vehicle and keep your seatbelt fastened.
Keep your hands visible at all times, preferably on the steering wheel.
If the officer issues you a citation, sign it and do not argue with the officer.
Signing the citation is not an admission of guilt.

What happens when you get a citation?

Why is this important?

Each year in Maryland, more than 60 people are killed and
more than 7,800 people are injured in crashes involving young
drivers. New Maryland drivers of all ages are much more likely
to be involved in crashes than experienced drivers. New drivers
are also more likely to receive a citation in their first year of
driving. Studies show that parents can be a positive influence
by being good drivers themselves, and by being actively
engaged with their new drivers.

19

Bumps In The Road

If you are convicted of

a moving violation or
given a Probation Before
Judgement while you
are still holding your
provisional drivers license,
you will be required to
restart your eighteen (18)
month waiting period.
Whether you are holding
a learners permit or a
provisional license, you
will be required to attend the Driver Improvement Program. This program is
designed to review the concepts taught in driver education and to review reasons
why driving safely is important.
Failing to attend Driver Improvement will result in suspension of your license.
For additional information about citations and penalties while holding a
provisional license, please go the http://www.mva.maryland.gov

You must always contact law enforcement if:

Someone has been injured in a crash.
A vehicle cannot be moved.
A driver appears to be under the influence.
A driver does not have a license.
A driver tries to leave the scene without giving proper information.
Public property has been damaged.

If you are in a crash where someone has been injured;

Immediately contact 911 and stay at the scene until help arrives.
Do not move vehicles.

If you are in a crash and no one is injured but you cannot move your
vehicle,
Contact 911 and seek assistance.
Move to a safe location away from traffic.
Use emergency flashers or flares to warn other motorists.

Bumps In The Road

If you are in a crash and there are no injuries and your vehicle can move,
move your vehicle out of the travel portion of the road and be sure to get
all of the pertinent information:
Name
Address
Phone number(s)
Insurance information
Vehicle license plate number and make, model and year, if possible
Name(s) and contact phone numbers and statements of any witnesses to the
crash.

If you strike and injure a domestic animal, you are required to notify law
enforcement.
If you strike an unattended vehicle or property, you are required to
Attempt to find the owner of the vehicle or property and provide contact
information
Leave your contact
information in a secure
place if you are unable
to locate and contact
the vehicle or property
owner. Notify your
insurance company of
the incident.
20

Driving While Impaired by Drugs or Alcohol

Under 21: zero tolerance for alcohol. That means you can receive a citation for
consuming one drink and driving. You are not legally old enough to drink.
21 and over: Driving with a 07 .079 BAC (blood alcohol content) is called
Driving While Impaired (DWI.)
21 and over: Driving with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .08 or above is
considered Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Both DUI and DWI are extremely serious charges that may result in you losing
your privilege to drive for an extended period.
By signing and accepting your Learners Instructional Permit, Provisional License
or full Drivers License, you also agree to be tested for the presence of drugs
and/or alcohol when requested by a law enforcement official. This is called
Implied Consent. Refusing to comply may result in the loss of your driving
privilege.
DUI, DWI, and Refusal to Test cannot be expunged from your driving record.
To learn more about Maryland impaired driving laws, go to www.mva.maryland.gov

Bumps In The Road

21

Please use this chart to log your new drivers practice driving time. If the new driver
is under 25, he/she will need to practice a MINIMUM of 60 hours. At least ten of
those hours should be at night. If possible, plan to allow your new driver to practice
in bad weather. If the new driver is 25 or older, it is necessary to complete 14
hours of practice driving, 3 of which must occur at night. REMEMBER THAT 60
HOURS IS A SUGGESTED MINIMUM. You may always practice more, and
more practice leads to safer driving.

Start Time

Skill or Activity
Practiced

Practice Log

Date

22

End Time

Total Number
of Hours
Completed

Date

Start Time

Skill or Activity
Practiced

End Time

Total Number
of Hours
Completed

Practice Log

23

Start Time

Skill or Activity
Practiced

Practice Log

Date

24

End Time

Total Number
of Hours
Completed

Date

Start Time

Skill or Activity
Practiced

End Time

Total Number
of Hours
Completed

Practice Log

25

Certification for Rookie Drivers

I hereby certify that ___________________________, who is under
25 years of age, has had a minimum of 60 hours behindthe-wheel
practice, has demonstrated that they can safely operate a motor vehicle, and
has been under the supervision of a valid license holder 21 years of age or
older, who has been licensed for at least three years. The 60 hours includes
10 hours of nighttime driving and are in addition to the 6 hours of behind the
wheel instruction received during the required driver education course.

Certification for Rookie Driver

OR
I hereby certify that _____________________________, who is 25
years of age or older, has had a minimum of 14 hours behind the wheel
driving practice, has demonstrated that they can safely operate a motor
vehicle, and has been under the supervision of a valid license holder 21 years
of age or older who has been licensed for at least three years, The 14 hours
includes 3 hours of nighttime driving and are in addition to the 6 hours of
behind the wheel instruction received during the required driver education
course.
It is illegal for anyone to give false information for a drivers license. This
certification in considered part of the license application, and anyone who
certifies to a false statement may be prosecuted and/or have their license
canceled. I certify, under penalty of perjury, that the statements made and the
information submitted by me regarding this certification are true and correct.
________________________________

Signature of parent, guardian, mentor, coach

________________________________
Drivers License Number

26

__________________

Date

Rookie Driver-Coach Agreement

This agreement gives you and your new driver an opportunity to set down some ground
rules for both of you. These can be rules for your driver while learning to drive and can
be updated after receiving a provisional license. The more involved you are as a coach,
the safer your new driver will be.

Rookie Driver:
I can drive from ________________ (times) to __________________
(times) with _________________ and ______________________ but may
have no more than _____ passengers in the vehicle at any time.

Signed:_________________________________ Date:_ ________________

For the coach...

I agree to supervise the completion of 60 hours of supervised

driving.
I agree to be a model driver and follow all Maryland driving laws.
I agree to be supportive and provide CONSTRUCTIVE,
HELPFUL comments to my new driver.
I agree to set limits to ensure safe driving and to enforce the
Maryland driving law with my new driver.
Signed:________________________ Date______________
27

Driver-Coach Agreement

I may drive on the following roads:

I will focus on driving when driving.
I may not text at any time while driving or use a phone for any reason while
driving.
I will always wear my safety belt and make sure that all my passengers are also
wearing their safety belts even if we are just driving around a parking lot.
I will not drink alcohol and drive for any reason.
I will not use any illegal drug and drive.
I will obey the restrictions of my provisional license.
If I violate these rules, I will face the following consequences.
First offense:
Second offense:
Third offense:

LEARNERS
PERMIT
Minimum Age

15 years ,
9 months
Must have
Cosigner?
cosigner who can
request MVA cancel
permit for any reason.
Driver and all
Seat Belt Use
passengers must wear
seat belts or be in age
appropriate car seats/
boosters.
No cell phone use
Cellphone use
except for
emergency 911 calls.
No texting except for
Texting
emergency 911 texts.
Nighttime
Restrictions

Passenger
Restrictions

Alcohol
Restrictions

Zero tolerance

Consequences First Offense:

DIP Class
Second Offense:
30 days of license
suspension and 90
days of work/school
restriction
Third Offense: 180
days suspension or
revocation &
180 days of work/
restriction. Must
attend Young Driver
Improvement Program
Fourth Offense: 180
day revocation

PROVISIONAL LICENSE

DRIVER LICENSE

16 years, 6 months

18 years,
0 months

If under 18, must have cosigner

who can request MVA cancel
license for any reason.
Driver and all passengers must
wear seat belts or be in age
appropriate car seats/boosters.

No cell phone use under the

age of 18 except for emergency
911 calls.
No texting except for
emergency 911 texts.

Driver and all

passengers must wear
seat belts or be in age
appropriate car seats/
boosters.
May use a hands free
device if over 18.
No texting except for
emergency 911 texts.

If under 18, may not drive between

12:00 am and 5:00 am unless
for school, sports, job, or
volunteer work.
If under 18, for first 151 days, may
not carry passengers other than
immediate family members.

No restrictions.

Zero tolerance

Under 21, zero

tolerance. 21 and over,
.07 BAC is DWI, and
.08 BAC and
higher is DUI.

First Offense: DIP Class

Second Offense: 30 days of
license suspension and 90 days of
work/school restriction
Third Offense: 180 days
suspension or revocation &
180 days of work/restriction. Must
attend Young Driver Improvement
Program
Fourth Offense: 180 day
revocation

5 7 points: DIP class

8 points: Suspension
of Drivers License with
possible additional
penalties
12 points: Revocation
of Drivers License with
possible additional
penalties

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No restrictions.

Congratulations!
For the new driver: You have completed your required hours of practice
time and driver education. You are ready to take your skills test. Remember
to practice and stay calm on the day of the test. For more information about
the driving test, please go to mva.maryland.gov and watch the brief video that
describes the driving test.
For the driving coach: The Motor Vehicle Administration and all the drivers
on Maryland roads thank you for helping your new driver learn to drive safely
and legally. But we want to remind you that the first year of independent driving
is the most hazardous for any new driver. Even careful, cautious new drivers
can get into serious crashes. On average, more than 400 people are killed
annually on Maryland roads.
Just because your new driver has passed the driving test and has obtained a
provisional license doesnt mean that your job as coach is over. You should
continue to monitor your new driver and follow the limitations set out in the
Maryland Graduated Licensing System.
It is recommended that you continue to ride with your new driver from time to
time to see how they are progressing and offer any comments or suggestions.
Hold your new driver to the contract you made in the Coach-New Driver
Agreement. You may even want to update the agreement as your new driver
gains experience and skill. Safe driving doesnt end when your new driver gets a
provisional license; it is a commitment for life for both you and your new driver.

www.facebook.com/pages/Maryland-Motor-Vehicle-Administration/
177207108627
https://twitter.com/MD_MVA/
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Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Information:

Call the MVA Customer Service Center
410-768-7000
1-800-492-4575 TTY for the Hearing Impaired
www.MVA.Maryland.gov

6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E.

Glen Burnie, MD 21062

RD-006 (02-15)